Category: Auto News

Auto news – automobile industry news. Articles about all the latest car models and concepts. Breaking news, uncovered secrets.

  • Brabus Mercedes-Benz G500 Convertible

    Brabus has unveiled their latest project based on Mercedes-Benz G500 Convertible. The open-top SUV follows a similar treatment for the three-door model.

    The exterior comes with a new front bumper housing for the fog lights and LED DRLs (daytime running lights). There are also steel running boards, revised front sports grille, extended wheel arches and a new rear bumper with a modified diffuser. At the rear, we can see LED brake light and Brabus’ spare wheel while the body has received a metallic black paint.

    The interior also comes with a black theme – perforated leather upholstery, a sports steering wheel, piano black and carbon accents as well as some Brabus logos and badges.

    Brabus Mercedes-Benz G500 Convertible is powered by a 5.5 liter bi-turbo V8 with 462HP (340 kW) and 615Nm (453 lb-ft) of torque. The original power is 388HP (285 kW) at 6,000RPM and 530Nm (391 lb-ft) at 2,800RPM. This means an increase of 74HP and 85Nm. The engine is connected to a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS).

    The fuel consumption is epic – 20 liters / 100 km – 11.7 mpg US or 14.1 mpg UK with CO2 emissions of 348 g/km.

    Source: Brabus

  • Trident Iceni Magna

    Trident has officially unveiled the Iceni Magna, which is now available on order at a starting price of £96,000. Trident Performance Vehicles emerged back in 2008, when they introduced Iceni model. Now, the range includes Iceni, Iceni Magna (fastback) and Iceni Venturer (estate).

    2015 Trident Iceni Magna is powered by a 6.6 liter V8 turbodiesel – 395HP (294 kW) and 948Nm (700 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 306 km/h (190 mph). There are also more powerful versions of the same engine – 430HP (320 kW) and 1,286Nm (950 lb-ft) and the top-of-range whopping 660HP (492 kW) and 1,422Nm (1,050 lb-ft). The estimated range in the incredible 2,000 miles (over 3,200 km) on a single tank of mineral diesel or bio-diesel. The car is able to return 68.9 mpg UK ( 4.1 liters / 100 or 57.3 mpg US).

    The company also offers a luxury upgrade pack including a two-tone Alcantara & leather interior, heated mirrors, smoked roof and a Clarion multimedia system with 7” display. A premium upgrade package adds carbon fiber elements for the interior, electric seats and a heated windscreen.

    The top-of-range model with extras will cost £126,000. With limited availability and a pre-launch waiting list, the three models are already in high demand across the globe.

    Source: Trident

  • Lexus LX 570 Supercharger Special Edition – 450HP

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    Lexus has unveiled the LX 570 Supercharger Edition in Kuwait. The powerful SUV comes with complete supercharger system and some other styling upgrades for the exterior and interior.

    Firstly, the LX 570 Supercharger comes with a 5.7 liter supercharged V8 with 450HP (335 kW), which is 67HP more than the original model. Still, it has 50HP less than the powerful Hennessey version coming with 500HP (373 kW). The engine is connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission coupled with an all-wheel drive system. 0-100 km/h in 6.6 seconds (the same as the 500HP version), but no data about the top speed. Eventually, it will do over 220 km/h (137 mph), but these huge SUVs are not about top speed, but comfort and vision.

    The special edition LX 570 comes with xenon headlights featuring LED low-beams, power tailgate, front and rear parking assist and satellite navigation. There is also a Mark Levinson premium sound system, heated and vented front seats, complete leather upholstery and wood trim elements.

    Last, but not least is the set of 20” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires. No words about offering LX 570 Supecharger Edition on the European market, but this is quite possible.

    Source:qabaq

  • Audi S5 Sportback By Senner Tuning

    Senner-Tuning-Audi-S5-Sportback-THUMBSenner Tuning Audi S5 Sportback is more than a high-performance coupé limousine. It carries a sportive gene and is craftily packaged in gorgeously formed bodywork. One can see that Senner Tuning endowed the S5 Sportback with an interesting optical and technical package. Firstly, the tuners added exclusive Work Schwert SC1 rims in chromium-silver finish as well as high-gloss anodized outer rims. The rims in front are in the size of 9×20 inches and include 91 millimeter-wide outer rims. They were fitted with with Continental Sport Contact 5P tires of the dimension 245/30R20.

    At the rear, high-grade Work wheels were added of the size 10.5×20 inches and 100 millimeters outer rim. The tyres here measure 295/25R20. Next, the tuners mounted KW variation 3 coilover kit thus achieving optically impressive lowering with an adjustable rebound and compression damping.

    The perfomrnace of this Audi was also improved. The overall power of the V6 compressor engine was enhanced from 333 hp (245 kW) to 446 horsepower (328 kW), while the torque – from 440 Nm (325 lb-ft) to 511 Nm (377 lb-ft). The optimization was made via an engine software. The top speed is now 300 km/h.

    Furthermore, there was also added a power converter for the elimination of the electronic drag moment during throttle response. On the other hand the Injen Cold Air Intake system including power pipe – black edition, contributes for the improved ventilation of the drive unit.

    Next, a specially manufactured valve-type sports exhaust system with a control system of the exhaust valves is regulated on the basis of load status-dynamic pressure. It also takes charge of processing the high-grade exhaust gases.

    Senner Tuning has also supplied the vehicle with a radio remote control system. The latter facilitates the individual switching of the valve control system between three different modes: travel, sports, race. This basically means that driver is able to adjust the volume of the system individually.

    Source: Senner Tuning

  • MTM Refines Volkswagen Golf 7 R 4Motion

    MTM-Volkswagen-Golf-7-R-4Motion-THUMBMTM Volkswagen Golf 7 R 4Motion delivers much more than the standard for the Golf 7 R Motion 300 hp horsepower. The production model is fitted with a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system and has a towing capacity of up to 2,000 kg. In other word the Golf 7R 4Motion is the perfect vehicle for high standards. After MTM has worked its magic, the car effortlessly operates on a different plane. The tuners have enhanced the engine and it now produces 360 hp (265 kW) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque.

    On its way to the top speed of 250 km/h it covers the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h for only 4.2 seconds. The modified powerplant owes this power to MTM’s M-Cantronic module, fitted in only 90 minutes.

    In addition, the front wheels are held in check by company’s 380×34 mm eight-piston brakes. The rear axle is served by the ideally sized standard brake system.

    The power is transmitted onto the road via Nardo wheels in the dimension of 8.5 x 19s. They are shod with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres in size 235/35 ZR 19, that also provide great road grip.

    At the rear, four tailpipes have been mounted. They also show that MTM’s ideally matched exhaust system doesn’t just look good but also exudes the good taste cultivated among Golf fans.

    Source: MTM

  • McLaren Special Operations Previews MSO 650S Coupe Concept

    McLaren-MSO-650S-Coupe-Concept-THUMBMcLaren MSO 650S Coupe Concept is a unique design concept vehicle which is destined to go on to a China tour. McLaren Special Operations (MSO) has developed bespoke upgrades for it, thus making it with optimised aerodynamic performance and more dramatic appearance. The range of the new styling options are not only available for the McLaren 650S Coupe and 650S Spider, but many of them can also be fitted to the previous 12C models.

    McLaren 650S Coupe and 650S Spider are the latest models to join to McLaren’s range. The pictures of the concept are previewing the model ahead its tour throughout China over the coming weeks. This supercar includes an array of bespoke MSO features, such as newly designed carbon fibre rear diffuser and MSO-branded carbon fibre side blades.

    The stealth-like appearance of the car is achieved through upgrades made to the exterior bodywork and within the driver-focused cabin. MSO 650S Coupe Concept is finished in ‘Agrigan Black’. The latter is a metallic black paint that was specifically developed in-house and features a deep ruby red metallic flake.

    This paint effect contrasts with the extensive use of satin-finished carbon fibre elements. From this material are made the front splitter and air intakes, side blades and the unique MSO ear diffuser. In fact, the side blades are more aggressive, full length, interpretation of the door blades seen on the 650S Coupe and Spider models.

    In addtition, they also offer increased improvements to the airflow along the edges of the bodywork. This of course optimizes the aerodynamic efficiency. At the rear, we can see a GT3-inspired rear bumper, which features a carbon fibre centre section. This material carries through to the carbon fibre airbrake and unique MSO rear diffuser.

    Furthermore, the engine bay has been further improved with satin black engine covers and a satin finish to all carbon fibre parts. MSO 650S Coupe Concept runs on satin black finished lightweight ‘650S’ alloy wheels fitted with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres.

    The interior enhancements include fixed-back carbon fibre racing seats, which are based on the lightweight design found in the McLaren P1. They are finished in carbon black leather. In addition, satin carbon fibre can be seen extensively throughout the cabin, while the switchgear and bezels are finished in contrasting gloss black.

    McLaren MSO 650S Coupe Concept is a one-off design study. MSO is monitoring reaction regarding any potential production examples.

    Source: McLaren

  • Three Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3s Prepared For Nurburgring

    nissan-nismo-gt3-THUMBNissan GT-R Nismo GT3 is returning to its home to follow up volume production lap record. Three cars have been prepared for this year’s Nurburgring 24 Hours race. The event will happen on 21st and 22nd of June and is considered one of the toughest endurance races in the world. Top racers will be contributing towards the success of Nissan at the race. Leading the charge will be a two-car entry from Nissan GT Academy Team RJN and a further GT-R entered by Schulze Motorsport.

    Precisely, GT Academy Germany Judge, Nick Heidfeld, will race the No.80 Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3. The car has been numbered in order to celebrate Nissan’s 80th anniversary. He will team up with the most recent GT Academy Germany winner, Florian Strauss. Nick and Florian will be joined by Lucas Ordonez, and Alex Buncombe.

    The No.30 Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3 is the other car featured at the event, and it carries this number in order to celebrate the 30 years of NISMO. This car will be engineered predominately by a team from NISMO.

    Nissan Super GT racers, Michael Krumm and Kazuki Hoshino, will team up with Katsumasa Chiyo and ‘Ring regular Tetsuya Tanaka in this car. At last, The third Schulze GT-R will be driven by the creator of Gran Turismo, Kazanori Yamauchi and the 2009 winner of GT Academy, Jordan Tresson.

    Source: Nissan

  • 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive – US Price

    Mercedes-Benz US has announced the pricing of the all-new B-Class ED (Electric Drive). The extremely efficient model has a price tag of $41,450 and will hit the market in summer, this year. It will compete versus BMW i3, which is just $100 less ( price $41,350).

    Some of the standard extras on 2014 B-Class ED include power front seats, cruise control and a Becker MAP PILOT satellite navigation system. There are also a lot of safety features like Attention Assist, Active Parking Assist and Collision Prevention Assist with adaptive Brake Assist.

    The options list is huge, but some of the important extras are the COMAND infotainment system with internet connectivity, GPS navigation and LINGUATRONIC voice control. It comes with a 7” touch-screen display and powerful audio system.

    2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive is powered by a 177HP (132 kW) and 340Nm (251 lb-ft) electric motor. 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 161 km/h (100 mph). The range is around 85 miles (137 km). There is a 28 kWh lithium-ion battery pack supplying the electric motor.

    When the battery is depleted, it can be fully recharged in 3.5 hours with a 240V charger. The B-Class ED can get 60 mile (96 km) range within 2 hours of recharging.

    Source: Mercedes-Benz

  • 2014 Subaru BRZ – Price Reduction

    Subaru UK has announced a significant £2,500 price reduction for the 2014 BRZ and the sports car now starts at just £23,995 (on-the-road) for the SE Lux model with manual transmission and £25,495 for automatic models.

    2014 Subaru BRZ is powered by a 2.0 litre horizontally-opposed Boxer petrol engine (200HP and 205Nm) and boasts a low centre of gravity and rear-wheel drive for engaging driving thrills. The BRZ has been reduced in price to ensure clear differentiation from the all-new All-Wheel Drive WRX STI saloon, Subaru’s flagship performance model.

    The WRX STI arrives in showrooms during May, priced from £28,995 (OTR) – £4,000 less than the previous model.

    The standard extras of BRZ SE Lux include Alcantara and leather trimmed seats and Torsen rear-axle differential which allows the keen driver to better exploit the sports car’s fine handling characteristics. Auto models feature steering wheel-mounted gear shift paddles.

    “A more favourable exchange rate between the pound and yen has allowed us to reduce the price of a number of models in recent years, and our performance range – the BRZ and WRX STI – are the latest to benefit. Together, they represent outstanding value for enthusiast drivers seeking a high level of performance, driver interaction and entertainment on the road.”, explained Paul Tunnicliffe, Managing Director of Subaru UK.

    Source: Subaru

  • EKS Audi S1 – FIA World Rallycross Championship

    EKS has unveiled their Audi S1 Race Car, which will take place in the 2014 FIA World Rallycross Championship. It comes with extreme tuning including entire chassis and engine rework. There is also a complete body package and huge rear wing.

    EKS Audi S1 Race Car will be drive by Mattias Ekstrom and Pontus Tidemand. Both drivers will have on their disposal over 600HP (447 kW) from a turbocharged 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine. It will be connected to a dual-clutch sports transmission and all-wheel drive system. 0-100 km/h in 1.9 seconds and a top speed of over 250 km/h (155 mph).

    The exterior of EKS S1 features widened front and rear aches in order to accommodate the huge racing wheels fitted with ultra-performance slick tires. There is also a new carbon fiber front splitter, modified front and rear hoods and a new rear diffuser. The two-part rear wing provides additional down force for the rear axle at high speeds.

    “This year our plans are to complete as much research and development of the car that we can for the future. Our goal is of course to build the best car.”, commented Mattias Ekstrom.

    Still, there is no other official information, but full details will be released in the beginning of the next month.

    Stay tuned!

    Source:EKS

  • Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe Pacific And Atlantic Convertible

    Corvette-Stingray-Coupe-Pacific-concept-THUMB2015 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is getting new design packages, called Atlantic luxury, prepared for the convertible, and the Pacific performance, created for the coupe. The concept versions of the vehicle were introduces at the last SEMA show in November. And since then, there is a strong response from enthusiasts, which lead to the eventual production.

    The luxury GT-focused Atlantic Convertible is inspired by the luxury and performance of private jets. It is to be offered on Z51-equipped convertibles, and will be available in the 2LT or 3LT trims. The package comprises of front Z06-style splitter; Shark Gray exterior vents, hood “stinger” graphic and tonneau inserts; Chrome Torque wheels with Stingray center caps; Stingray underhood liner and floor mats; custom splash guards, rear license plate frame and logo valve stem caps as well as custom luggage.

    On the other hand, the track-focused Pacific Coupe is offered again on the Z51-equipped coupe, in 2LT and 3LT trims. It features the following unique content: color choices of Torch Red, Black, Arctic White, Blade Silver and Shark Gray; satin black full-length racing stripes; satin black Z51 wheels with red stripe and Stingray center caps; “CFZ” carbon fiber ground effects package and visible carbon fiber roof panel; Carbon Flash rear spoiler, outside mirrors and exterior badges; Red brake calipers; Competition Sport Seats in red or black; carbon fiber interior trim, Stingray sill plates and Stingray floor mats; custom splash guards and rear license plate frame and indoor gray car cover.

    As an option, both vehicles can be equipped with Chevrolet’s Performance Data Recorder as well as the new eight-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission. Here as a standard, the cars are equipped with the seven-speed manual transmission.

    2015 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Atlantic Convertible and Pacific Coupe will go on sale later this year along with the rest of the Stingray lineup.

    Source: Chevrolet

  • MINI Makes One-off Paceman Adventure

    MINI-Paceman-Adventure-THUMBMINI Paceman Adventure is a concept project that resulted from the joint work of the young apprentices and their instructors at the BMWs plant in Munich. This Paceman has completely one-off vision. As a basis the students have used the current MINI Cooper S Paceman. They have transformed it into a two-seater with a pickup style cargo area. This MINI pick-up features all necessary off-road characteristicis, including a powerful engine, all-wheel drive, big tyres, modified suspension and much more.

    To go further into details, this Paceman Adventure is powered by the Cooper S Paceman’s engine which produces 184 horsepower (135 kW). In addition, it is equipped with MINI’s ALL4. The passenger compartment features only two front seats. Behind them is positioned the cargo area that is suitable for luggage, tools and equipment begins. A solid roof rack can accommodate a spare wheel.

    Furthermore, the pickup has the typically MINI short overhangs, but includes a modified chassis with extended ground clearance and higher front and rear clearance ramps. This MINI concept also features a snorkel-like roof level air intake, thus meaning that it could tackle a river crossing.

    On the front cross member of the roof rack are mounted additional lights. The car has been fitted with off-road tyres, which prepare the concept for the perfect off-road experience.At last, the exterior paint finish is Jungle Green metallic. Unfortunately, MINI has no plans for a production version of the Paceman Adventure.

    Source: MINI